A meta-analysis of the effectiveness of acupuncture in smoking cessation

Author(s): Silagy, C. A., Lodge, M., Fowler, G.

Journal/Book: Drug Alcohol Rev. 1997; 16: PO Box 25, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, England OX14 3UE. Carfax Publ Co. 33-40.

Abstract: The role of acupuncture in facilitating smoking cessation is controversial, A systematic review was undertaken, incorporating meta-analytic techniques, of all the available randomized controlled trials examining the effectiveness of acupuncture in smoking cessation, Based on the data from nine trials involving 2707 patients, the odds ratio of abstinence at 6-12 months' follow-up is 1.48 (95% confidence interval 1.13-1.94) with acupuncture compared to no acupuncture or sham acupuncture, The odds of quitting were higher in comparisons between acupuncture and no acupuncture (OR 2.41, CI: 1.52 to 3.83) than between acupuncture and sham acupuncture (OR 1.16, CI: 0.90 to 1.49), Many of the included trials were small and had methodological shortcomings, Therefore, while acupuncture appears promising, there is insufficient evidence at this point, without further research, to recommend it as an effective form of therapy.

Note: Article Silagy CA, Flinders Univ S Australia, Dept Gen Practice, Bedford Pk, SA 5042, AUSTRALIA

Keyword(s): smoking; nicotine; meta-analysis; acupuncture; treatment outcome; MYOCARDIAL-INFARCTION; THERAPY; METAANALYSIS

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